Saturday, February 15, 2014

Buying The Right Horseware For The Season

By Jerri Perry


Owners today have many different types and styles of horseware to choose from. This ranges from simple summer sheets to keep the dust and flies off the horses back, to warm winter blankets that will keep out even the worst weather. Choosing the right blanket for each situation does take a little time and care.

It takes hours of work and preparation to succeed in the show ring. Each year many riders, from young children to veteran riders who have spent decades in the saddle, take part in shows and competitions. These range from small local events that are fun and friendly all the way to national and international level contests that require very expensive horses.

A one hundred percent cotton sheet should not be put in the drier as it will most likely shrink. This can be very upsetting, especially for someone who has spent a lot of money to get a beautiful sheet in their stable colors. Most big barns and trainers have their own specific designs and color schemes. One of the reasons for this is that it helps them to keep an eye on their clients belongings when they are away at shows.

During the summer months many horses are on the show circuit. This may mean many hours on the road travelling from show to show. These horses need a lot of equipment. This will include a variety of rugs and blankets. Most stables like to have their own distinctive colors. Their horses are all kitted out in matching rugs, halters and leg wraps. This not only looks very professional, but also gives the riders a great sense of team spirit.

Once a horse has been clipped he will need several warm blankets to compensate for the loss of hair. There are some excellent ones available today that are light weight, easy to wash and fully waterproof. They are also lined with specially developed nylon products that not only help to prevent rubbing and sore spots, but will actually polish and shine the coat.

As horses need to be turned out in the field every day a good warm blanket is essential. In fact many owners like their animals to have a designated turn out blanket and a slightly lighter stable rug. They can add layers to this as the weather gets colder. The lighter layers are also very easy to wash and help to keep the horses coat clean and ready for a show. Show preparation takes many hours and a lot of work so every little bit of help is appreciated by the owners and barn staff.

Other shoppers still prefer the individual attention of a local tack store. They can really get to know the staff and ask questions. It is nice to be able to look at the products and see which they like the best. Although a good quality run can cost a little more it is typically worth the extra expense.

The hoods are very quick to wash and dry and quite inexpensive to buy. For the hours of work they save they are totally worth the investment. They are made in a variety of colors and patterns. Hoods are one of the greatest new items of horseware to hit the market.




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